2026 is well under way and the studio is busy with plenty of projects, old and new. My plans this year is stacked – sketches, portraits, comics, and new stories to share. What has been quite a boon in 2025 was the support from other artists around me here in Nashville and online. We have quite a large community out here and it just takes a little step outside the usual bubble to find them.
Groups and Regrouping
Since being a member of the NASH Illustrators, I have had the privilege of learning how other illustrators fine tune their craft. Even though many of us use the same materials, the results look so different. I’m picking up ideas along the way from this squad that are helping me frame comics in particular – especially in how an artist can approach expressive drawing. I always walk away from our monthly meetings inspired.
The above drawing of a blue jay was a suggestion made by a member of another group I recently found called Wana Create – and I am glad I did! This little fella was well-received and a popular timelapse video on YouTube. With this group, I have met so many artists from across every medium: music, paint, collage, sculpture, jewelry, and so much more. Our weekly night meetings allow me to observe and learn from artists who I might not otherwise have met before.
What’s the result of all of this social interaction? Reflection! I have a better understanding of what routes are available to artists. I want to create the best work I can and that will require some prioritization; seeing others do this and live it is quite helpful.
A Plan for 2026
With all of the reflection done, the plan for Monochrome Mythology has two facets: core projects and skill builders. Let’s look at these for a bit:
Core Projects
The major projects of the year are the ones that embody the stories I want to tell the most. In this case, these are complex portraits (such as the in-progress Eurydice), other Greek/Roman myths, and the long-form graphic novel centered around eating disorders. Burden was the big core project for last year.
Skill Builders
The other area is what I like to call “skill builders” – practice illustrations (like the mockingbird above), illustrations, exercises, or short-form comics that give me the chance to experiment or develop in an artistic way. Every drawing experience builds skill but some intentional ones are better focused for certain results. One example would be the continuation of my anatomy studies.
Wrapping Up
Thanks for joining me on this look ahead! The world is kind of a crazy place these days; art will be there to add perspective, comfort, or challenge as needed.
Keep telling stories,
Jeremy